Reading is something that I enjoy a great deal. I also want my child to enjoy reading and that is difficult considering that she is hooked on electronics. She is to the point that she mostly reads signs, rules and instructions which is actually a good trait. Her reading comprehension is fine as long as it is something she can follow, when it comes to tests at school they are read to her and she is given choices for the purpose of getting them completed in a timely manner. I just don't have a fortune to spend on reading materials.

Encouraging your child to read is one of the best things you will ever do for them. Reading with them is important, it is time that you to share together. Knowledge and the imagination are expanded through books allowing you and your child to learn and expand your horizons. Books can be expensive over time, so I try and find ways to keep the cost down without skimping on the reading material.

Visit the Local Library

The local library and the library at your child’s school both have books on thousands of subjects for free. School libraries usually allow books to be out for one to two weeks at a time while public library allow books to be out for as long as a month. Libraries also have cassette tapes, videos and some text books although they may be a bit dated you can use them as a starting point when researching. All of this is at no cost.

Buy Used Books

Used books are becoming more popular since there is usually nothing wrong with them but some wear from being read. Stores that sell used books usually do so for least half of the cover price or less. Some used book stores have new books as well as having the ability to find specific books for you. You should realize though that they normally charge the cover price for new books.

There is one advantage of a used book store, trading. Some used book stores will trade your old books in at 2 for 1. This means that you give them two of your old books in exchange for one new one. It saves you the expense of buying the book and keeps the stores shelves stocked for future customers. If you're into romance, you should be aware that romance only trades for romance in most cases.

You can also ask family and friends to trade books with you should you have something the other would like to read.

Dollar Stores and Discount Store

Dollar and Discount Stores often have children's books and other books that aren't as well known for a low price. Some of the discount stores that specialize in used items occasionally have books for lower costs as well. Children's workbooks and old textbooks can be found on the shelves if you need something to occupy the kids. (Old Literature textbooks often contain short stories.)

Discount Clubs

There are some book clubs that offer you a free trial and reduced rates on books. You can get two free books by ordering a sample from these clubs. If you like them you can order books at a discount from the cover price. On the other hand if you're not satisfied you can cancel and keep the two books they sent you for free. Be sure to read the fine print this isn't the case for all of the clubs.

Kindle/Nook

Those that own a reading device such as the Kindle or Nook will find that they can obtain free books in a digital format for their devices. Some of the books can be obtained for as little as 99 cents. One of the devices offers the option to lend/borrow books which reduces costs even further.

Saving money on books is possible for anyone regardless of how much they read.​

These are a great option! Another great way is the Little Free Libraries that are scattered around some neighborhoods. They are little boxes with all different kinds of books in them from reference to kids book to contemporary fiction and more.

There are a bunch of them in the Denver Metro area and in some other places around the US. Basically, it's a give a book, take a book system that runs on the honor system. They are always well-stocked here. We've gotten most of our kids books from them and when we're done with them.

Reply

Laurie

1/11/2018 20:33:22

I've only ever seen one of those. It was at a park in Arkansas. I didn't even think about those when I wrote this. Thanks Richard!